TAMIU Names New Dustdevils AD

After a national search, Texas A&M International University has selected its new Athletics Director for the 11-sport TAMIU Dustdevil Athletics Program.

Gilbert “Griz” Zimmermann, director of Athletics for Lake Erie College, will begin his new post at TAMIU July 8, 2013.

“We are confident that Mr. Zimmermann’s range of experience and demonstrated facility in planning, directing and administering intercollegiate athletics programs will serve TAMIU well, positioning us for greater growth and success in Dustdevil Athletics,” said TAMIU president Dr. Ray Keck.

Zimmermann said he is looking forward to the challenge ahead and elevating TAMIU’s program.

“I’m excited about the opportunity and the challenge ahead.  TAMIU has some excellent student-athletes and strong programs in place.  I’m very impressed by the Athletic department staff and their commitment to the program,” Zimmermann said,  “I’m also extremely encouraged by the level of support that TAMIU Athletics has both on campus and in the Laredo community and look forward to working hand in hand with our partners and supporters to help Dustdevil Athletics move to the next level.”

A native of St. Louis, Mo., Zimmermann holds a Masters in Exercise Physiology and a Bachelors in Physical Education, both from the University of Michigan (UM). While at Michigan, he was member of the football team under legendary Hall of Fame Coach Bo Schembechler.

He has been at Lake Erie College in Painesville, OH since 2007.  Under his leadership, the Storm Athletics Department has grown from 10 NCAA Division III varsity teams to 23 teams, all competing at NCAA Division II level.   He has also increased the number of student athletes from the mid-100’s to over 500.

Other positions in his 29-year-long career have included director of Athletics at Gannon University (Erie, PA) and Saginaw Valley State University (University Center, MI).   He was also assistant athletic director at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas; serving as project manager for the construction of the $42 million Gerald J. Ford Stadium complex.  He was also Baylor Fitness Center director in Dallas and a strength and conditioning coach for both SMU and UM.

During his May 7 visit to the campus as part of his interview, Zimmermann outlined a seven-point plan for inter-collegiate athletics success, including integrity and leadership, fiscal responsibility, University and athletic community relationship advancement and athletic excellence through winning.

Zimmermann will be welcomed to TAMIU with a press conference and community reception in July.

He replaces retiring Dr. Leonard Nardone, TAMIU’s third AD.  Nardone joined TAMIU in 2010.

For additional information, contact the TAMIU Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at 956.326.2180, email prmis@tamiu.edu or visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, suite 268.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu